ifdril syrup - Ammonium Chloride (138mg/5ml) + Sodium Citrate (57.03mg/5ml) medicine

Ascotus Syrup: Complete Medicine Guide

No reviews yet
🏭 Positif Life sciences 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 26, 2026
🤰 Pregnancy Category Not classified under the old letter system. Use only if clearly needed and prescribed by a doctor. Consult your obstetrician before use. 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Supportive evidence for symptomatic relief; not a primary treatment for any disease.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 26, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Blood in stool or vomit
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Chest pain or difficulty breathing
  • Severe headache with visual changes
  • Sudden swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Decreased urine output
  • Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
  • Muscle weakness or cramps
  • Confusion or extreme fatigue

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is ifdril syrup used for?

This medicine is a combination syrup of Ammonium Chloride and Sodium Citrate used to loosen thick mucus in cough and to alkalinize urine. It provides symptomatic relief and should be taken as prescribed by a doctor.

  • Generic Name: Ammonium Chloride (138mg/5ml) + Sodium Citrate (57.03mg/5ml)
  • Manufacturer: Positif Life sciences
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 ifdril syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा अमोनियम क्लोराइड और सोडियम सिट्रेट का मिश्रण है, जिसका उपयोग गाढ़े बलगम वाली खांसी में बलगम को पतला करने और पेशाब को क्षारीय बनाने के लिए किया जाता है। यह खांसी में राहत देती है और शरीर में एसिड-बेस संतुलन बनाने में मदद करती है। यह दवा संक्रमण का इलाज नहीं करती, इसलिए डॉक्टर की सलाह से ही लें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में जी मिचलाना, उल्टी, पेट में जलन, दस्त, प्यास लगना और सिरदर्द शामिल हैं। कभी-कभी गंभीर एलर्जी, इलेक्ट्रोलाइट असंतुलन या मेटाबॉलिक एसिडोसिस हो सकता है। अगर आपको सांस लेने में तकलीफ, चक्कर, मांसपेशियों में कमजोरी या दिल की धड़कन अनियमित लगे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। इसे लेने से पहले बोतल को अच्छी तरह हिलाएं और मापने वाले कप से सही मात्रा लें। इसे भोजन या दूध के साथ लें ताकि पेट में जलन न हो। दिनभर पर्याप्त पानी पिएं। अगर आपको उच्च रक्तचाप, हृदय रोग या गुर्दे की बीमारी है तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं बिना सलाह दवा न लें। शराब न पिएं।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 ifdril syrup Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Productive cough with thick mucus","description":"Helps thin and loosen bronchial secretions, making cough more productive and easing chest congestion.","evidence":"Commonly used, supportive evidence"},{"condition":"Urinary alkalinization","description":"Sodium Citrate helps make urine less acidic, which can be useful in certain urinary tract conditions and to reduce irritation.","evidence":"Well-established for alkalinization"},{"condition":"Metabolic acidosis (adjunct)","description":"Sometimes used as an alkalinizing agent in mild metabolic acidosis under medical supervision.","evidence":"Limited, specialist use"},{"condition":"Respiratory tract infections with thick secretions","description":"Used as an adjunct to help clear mucus; does not treat the infection itself.","evidence":"Supportive care"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Uric acid kidney stones prevention","description":"Alkalinization of urine may help prevent uric acid stone formation, but this is not a primary labeled use.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Cystitis-related discomfort","description":"Sometimes used to reduce bladder irritation by alkalinizing urine.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Productive cough with thick mucus

Also treats: Urinary alkalinization, Mild metabolic acidosis, Respiratory tract infections with thick secretions

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Ammonium Chloride (138mg/5ml) + Sodium Citrate (57.03mg/5ml)
Brand Nameifdril syrup
ManufacturerPositif Life sciences
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action Class
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C. Protect from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture, or as printed on the pack.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Always prescribe this medicine with clear instructions on dose and duration.
2
Advise patients to take it with food or milk to minimize stomach upset.
3
Warn patients about the sodium content, especially those with hypertension or heart failure.
4
Monitor electrolytes if used for more than a few days, particularly in elderly or renal patients.
5
Instruct patients not to use this medicine for chronic cough without evaluating the underlying cause.
6
Caution patients about driving if they experience dizziness.
7
Advise patients to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Productive cough with thick mucus
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Urinary burning or acidity
Sodium Citrate helps alkalinize urine.
Likely Use
❌
Dry cough without mucus
This medicine is not primarily for dry cough.
Not Primary
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionAmmonium Chloride is readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Sodium Citrate is also well absorbed and rapidly metabolized. Specific absorption rates are not established from the available information.
DistributionAmmonium ions distribute into body fluids, including respiratory secretions. Citrate is widely distributed as bicarbonate. Specific volume of distribution data is not established from the available information.
Protein BindingNot established from the available information.
MetabolismSodium Citrate is metabolized in the liver and other tissues to bicarbonate. Ammonium Chloride is metabolized in the liver to urea and hydrochloric acid. Specific metabolic pathways are not fully established from the available information.
Half-LifeNot established from the available information.
ExcretionAmmonium is excreted as urea in urine. Citrate is excreted as bicarbonate and carbon dioxide. Specific excretion data is not established from the available information.
BioavailabilityNot established from the available information.
Onset of ActionOnset of expectorant effect is typically within 30 to 60 minutes after oral intake. Alkalinizing effect may take a few hours. Individual variation exists.
Peak Plasma TimeNot established from the available information.
Duration of ActionExpectorant effect may last 4 to 6 hours. Alkalinizing effect may last several hours depending on dose and individual factors.

How It Works

This medicine works through two complementary mechanisms. Ammonium Chloride is an expectorant that irritates the gastric mucosa, reflexively stimulating respiratory tract secretions, which reduces mucus viscosity and helps in its expulsion. It also acts as an acidifying agent after metabolism. Sodium Citrate is an alkalinizing agent; it is metabolized to bicarbonate, which neutralizes excess acid in the body and urine. Together, they provide symptomatic relief in cough associated with thick mucus and help correct acidic conditions in the urinary tract.

Mechanism Steps

1
Gastric irritation by Ammonium Chloride: Ammonium Chloride irritates the stomach lining, which reflexively stimulates the respiratory tract to produce more watery secretions.
2
Thinning of mucus: The increased respiratory secretions reduce the thickness and stickiness of mucus, making it easier to cough out.
3
Metabolism of Sodium Citrate: Sodium Citrate is metabolized in the body to bicarbonate, which acts as a buffer to neutralize excess acid.
4
Alkalinization of urine and body fluids: The bicarbonate produced raises the pH of urine and helps correct mild metabolic acidosis.
5
Symptomatic relief: The combined effects lead to easier coughing and reduced urinary acidity, providing symptomatic relief.

💡 How to Take ifdril syrup

Strength: Each 5 ml of syrup contains Ammonium Chloride 138 mg and Sodium Citrate 57.03 mg.

1Shake the bottle well before each use.
2Measure the prescribed dose using the measuring cup or spoon provided.
3Take the medicine orally with a glass of water.
4Take it with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
5Do not take more than the prescribed dose.
6Wash the measuring cup after each use.
7Close the bottle tightly after use.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 5 to 10 ml taken orally two to three times a day, or as directed by your doctor. The dose may vary depending on the condition being treated, such as cough or urinary alkalinization. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. Shake well before use and measure with the provided cup.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing in children.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to electrolyte imbalances and fluid retention. Use with caution and under medical supervision. Dose adjustment may be needed based on kidney and heart function.
Renal ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with kidney disease. Dose adjustment may be required. Not recommended in severe renal impairment. Consult your doctor.
Hepatic ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment may be required. Consult your doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose should not exceed 30 ml in adults unless otherwise prescribed by a doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset and nausea.
With milk
Can take with milk
Helps reduce gastric irritation.
High-sodium foods
Limit
Medicine contains sodium; excess may worsen fluid retention.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases stomach irritation and dehydration risk.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of ifdril syrup

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food or milk. If nausea persists, consult your doctor.
Vomiting (Uncommon (1-5%))
Stop the medicine and consult your doctor if vomiting is severe or persistent.
Stomach discomfort or heartburn (Common (5-10%))
Take after meals. Avoid spicy foods. Consult doctor if it continues.
Diarrhea (Uncommon (1-5%))
Stay hydrated. Consult doctor if diarrhea lasts more than 2 days.
Increased thirst (Common (5-10%))
Drink plenty of water. This is usually harmless.
Headache (Uncommon (1-5%))
Rest and stay hydrated. Consult doctor if severe.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe metabolic acidosis (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rapid breathing, confusion, or extreme fatigue.
Allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing) (Rare (<0.1%))
Stop the medicine and seek emergency care immediately.
Electrolyte imbalance (low potassium, high sodium) (Rare (<0.1%))
Consult doctor if you have muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, or confusion.
Severe gastrointestinal bleeding (Very rare (<0.01%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice black stools or vomit blood.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Hypernatremia (high sodium levels)
Monitor if you have high blood pressure or heart failure. Consult doctor.
Hypokalemia (low potassium levels)
Report muscle cramps or weakness to your doctor.
Metabolic alkalosis
Seek medical attention if you feel confused or have muscle twitching.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Furosemide Major
Hydrochlorothiazide Major
Prednisolone Major
Lisinopril Moderate
Losartan Moderate
Antacids Moderate
Lithium Moderate
Aspirin Moderate
Amlodipine Minor
Pseudoephedrine Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Diuretics (e.g., furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide)
  • Corticosteroids
  • ACE inhibitors or ARBs

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Antacids
  • Lithium
  • Aspirin

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine. Alcohol can increase stomach irritation, worsen nausea, and lead to dehydration, which may aggravate electrolyte imbalances. It may also increase the risk of drowsiness or dizziness.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Severe kidney disease or renal failure","Severe liver disease","Uncontrolled hypertension or heart failure","Metabolic alkalosis","Hypernatremia","Known allergy to Ammonium Chloride or Sodium Citrate","Strict low-sodium diet","Use in children without medical advice"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Contains sodium; caution in patients with hypertension, heart failure, or edema.","May cause electrolyte imbalances; monitor if used for prolonged periods.","Use with caution in patients with kidney or liver disease.","May cause stomach irritation; take with food or milk.","Do not exceed recommended dose.","Consult doctor before use in pregnancy or breastfeeding.","Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.","Do not use for chronic cough without medical evaluation."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

It is not known whether Ammonium Chloride and Sodium Citrate pass into breast milk in significant amounts. Consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and metabolic acidosis. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic, including fluid and electrolyte replacement. Do not induce vomiting unless advised by a healthcare professional.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase or decrease the dose on your own. Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure the medicine is evenly mixed. Measure the dose with the measuring cup or spoon provided; do not use a household spoon. Take this medicine with food or milk to reduce stomach upset. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help loosen mucus and support kidney function. Avoid taking antacids or other medicines within two hours of this medicine unless your doctor approves. If you have high blood pressure, heart failure, or kidney problems, inform your doctor before using this medicine because it contains sodium. Do not use this medicine for more than the recommended duration without consulting your doctor. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before use. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you feel dizzy or drowsy after taking this medicine.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more prone to electrolyte imbalances, fluid retention, and drug interactions. Use this medicine with caution and under medical supervision. Monitor kidney function, blood pressure, and electrolytes regularly.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning pregnancy or are pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. The safety of this combination during pregnancy is not well established. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Consult your doctor before using this medicine after surgery. It may affect electrolyte balance and interact with other medications. Do not self-medicate during the postoperative period.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. It may cause dry mouth or interact with other medications used during dental work.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
🥗
Use a humidifier or take steam inhalation to help loosen mucus.
😴
Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.
💧
Get adequate rest to support recovery from cough and infections.
🧘
Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
🌞
Avoid alcohol and caffeine if they worsen your symptoms.
🚭
Practice good hand hygiene to prevent infections.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Mild to moderate exercise is generally safe, but if you feel dizzy, weak, or short of breath, stop and rest. Avoid strenuous exercise if you have a severe cough or electrolyte imbalance. Consult your doctor before starting any exercise routine while on this medicine.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Drink warm fluids like soups and herbal teas to soothe the throat.
Include foods rich in potassium like bananas and oranges if advised.
Limit high-sodium processed foods.
Avoid spicy and oily foods that can irritate the stomach.
Stay hydrated with water throughout the day.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness in some people. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you feel unsteady. It may also cause frequent urination if used for alkalinization, which can affect work routines. Take it as prescribed and inform your employer if needed.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop taking this medicine and consult your doctor if your symptoms do not improve within 7 days, if they worsen, or if you experience severe side effects such as allergic reactions, persistent vomiting, or signs of electrolyte imbalance. Do not stop suddenly if you have been on long-term therapy without medical advice.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine without medical supervision can lead to electrolyte imbalances, metabolic acidosis or alkalosis, and increased sodium load. It may worsen hypertension, heart failure, or kidney disease. Regular monitoring of electrolytes, kidney function, and blood pressure is advised if prolonged use is necessary. Do not use for more than the recommended duration without consulting your doctor.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Steam inhalation

Helps loosen mucus and soothe airways naturally.

Evidence: Supportive
Guaifenesin

Another expectorant that can help thin mucus.

Evidence: Well-established
Increased fluid intake

Helps thin mucus and supports overall recovery.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, if you are due for any vaccination, inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✅ DO

Keep out of reach of children

❌ DON'T

Do not use after expiry date

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label intact. Keep a copy of your prescription with you. Store it at room temperature and protect it from direct sunlight and moisture. If traveling across time zones, continue your regular dosing schedule as advised by your doctor. Check customs regulations for carrying liquid medicines. Do not leave it in a hot car.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old man with a productive cough and thick mucus
He was prescribed this medicine for 5 days. He took it with warm water after meals and drank plenty of fluids. His cough became more productive and chest congestion eased within 3 days. He experienced mild nausea on the first day, which went away when he took it with food.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine with food and staying hydrated improves tolerability and helps loosen mucus effectively.
👤 A 60-year-old woman with recurrent urinary tract discomfort
She was advised to take this medicine to alkalinize her urine. She took it as prescribed and noticed reduced burning sensation within 2 days. Her doctor monitored her electrolytes, which remained normal. She was advised not to exceed the dose.
💡 Lesson: This medicine can help reduce urinary acidity, but monitoring and adherence to dose are important, especially in older adults.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: The expectorant effect may start within 30 to 60 minutes, while the alkalinizing effect may take a few hours. Individual results vary.

Q: Can I take this medicine with other cough syrups?

A: Do not combine with other cough medicines without consulting your doctor, as it may lead to overlapping effects or interactions.

Q: Is this medicine safe for diabetics?

A: This medicine does not contain sugar in significant amounts, but always check with your doctor, especially if you have other health conditions.

Q: What should I do if I accidentally take too much?

A: Seek immediate medical attention. Overdose can cause severe nausea, vomiting, and electrolyte imbalance.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?
  • Is it safe for children?
  • Can I take it during pregnancy?

🔄 Substitutes for ifdril syrup

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can cure any type of cough.
    Fact: This medicine only helps loosen mucus and provide symptomatic relief. It does not treat infections or underlying causes.
  • Myth: More medicine means faster relief.
    Fact: Taking more than the prescribed dose can cause serious side effects. Always follow your doctor's advice.
  • Myth: It is safe to take this medicine for a long time without monitoring.
    Fact: Prolonged use can cause electrolyte imbalances. Regular monitoring is needed if used long-term.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Ammonium Chloride + Sodium Citrate syrup (generic)

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","composition":"Ammonium Chloride + Sodium Citrate","primary_use":"Cough with thick mucus, urinary alkalinization","route":"Oral"},{"medicine":"Guaifenesin syrup","composition":"Guaifenesin","primary_use":"Chest congestion, productive cough","route":"Oral"},{"medicine":"Potassium Citrate syrup","composition":"Potassium Citrate","primary_use":"Urinary alkalinization, kidney stones","route":"Oral"}]

😊 Was this information helpful?

Browse Medicines A-Z

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Back to Medicines Directory